Blending the Virtual and the Real – Using Freeware 3D simulation to Enhance Realism in Audio Engineering.

Freeware graphics tools were used to create a 3d simulation of a building and deliver it online to audio engineering students via a Virtual Learning Environment. A pilot group of students were required to design a sound reinforcement system for the virtual building, while another group of students were given a similar task based only on 2d architectural plans. Questionnaires and interviews were used to assess the learning experience of the two groups. Results indicated that the use of the simulation increased realism of the learning experience, increased motivation and enabled more effective communication amongst the group compared to those using only the 2d plans.